U.S. patent application number 11/872317 was filed with the patent office on 2008-06-12 for applicator device for applying liquid material.
This patent application is currently assigned to NORDSON CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Bernward Starke.
Application Number | 20080135650 11/872317 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37833051 |
Filed Date | 2008-06-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080135650 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Starke; Bernward |
June 12, 2008 |
APPLICATOR DEVICE FOR APPLYING LIQUID MATERIAL
Abstract
An applicator device for sheet application of liquid material
including a main body, a nozzle assembly with at least one slotted
application nozzle for dispensing the liquid material, and a
clamping device attaching the nozzle assembly to the main body.
Inventors: |
Starke; Bernward; (Adendorf,
DE) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WOOD, HERRON & EVANS, LLP (NORDSON)
2700 CAREW TOWER, 441 VINE STREET
CINCINNATI
OH
45202
US
|
Assignee: |
NORDSON CORPORATION
Westlake
OH
|
Family ID: |
37833051 |
Appl. No.: |
11/872317 |
Filed: |
October 15, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
239/600 ;
239/135; 239/597 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B05C 5/0279 20130101;
B05C 5/0258 20130101; B05B 15/65 20180201; B05C 5/001 20130101;
B05C 5/0237 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
239/600 ;
239/597; 239/135 |
International
Class: |
B05B 1/00 20060101
B05B001/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 27, 2006 |
DE |
202006016674.2 |
Claims
1. Applicator device for sheet application of liquid material
comprising: a main body, a nozzle assembly with at least one
slotted application nozzle for dispensing the liquid material, and
a clamping device attaching the nozzle assembly to the main
body.
2. Applicator device according to claim 1, wherein the clamping
device has at least one clamping section that is a solid part of
the main body and/or at least one clamping means that can be
attached to the main body.
3. Applicator device according to claim 2, wherein the clamping
device has a plurality of clamping means spaced apart from each
other.
4. Applicator device according to claim 2, wherein the main body
has a contact surface for placing the nozzle assembly, and the
clamping section has a clamping section surface and/or the clamping
means has a clamping means surface, and the contact surface spans
an angle of less than 90.degree., preferably less than 80.degree.,
especially preferably 75.degree. or less to the clamping section
surface and/or in the attached state to the clamping means
surface.
5. Applicator device according to claim 1, wherein the clamping
device has at least one tensioning means for clamping the nozzle
assembly in position.
6. Applicator device according to claim 5, wherein the tensioning
means has at least one tensioning screw and/or is at least
partially formed in at least one clamping means.
7. Applicator device (1, 201, 301) according to claim 1, wherein at
least one positioning means is provided for positioning the nozzle
assembly.
8. Applicator device according to claim 7, wherein one positioning
means has a stop for the nozzle assembly.
9. Applicator device according to claim 7, wherein the positioning
means has at least one recess in the nozzle assembly or in the
clamping device and at least one corresponding element to engage
the recess.
10. Applicator device according to claim 9, wherein the
corresponding element is designed as a movable element, in
particular as a threaded pin in the clamping means.
11. Applicator device according to claim 9, wherein the recess has
sloping flanks and/or is conical in shape.
12. Applicator device according to claim 2, wherein the clamping
device has at least two opposing fixed clamping sections for
attaching a nozzle assembly between the two clamping sections.
13. Applicator device according to claim 12, wherein the clamping
device has an approximately U-shaped cross section and/or surrounds
a dovetail-shaped space.
14. Applicator device according to claim 2, wherein the clamping
means is elastic, in particular designed as a sheet-metal
spring.
15. Applicator device according to claim 2, further comprising a
holding element attached to the clamping section.
16. Applicator device according to claim 2, wherein the nozzle
assembly has at least one indentation, in particular a groove, for
engaging an edge of the clamping means (58, 258, 358, 458) and/or
of the holding element.
17. Applicator device according to claim 1, wherein a heating
device for heating the liquid material is provided and the heating
device has a plurality of heating elements, some of which differ in
heating capacity.
18. Applicator device according to claim 17, wherein heating
elements in outer zones of the main body, in particular at its
ends, have greater heating capacities than those in inner zones of
the main body.
19. Applicator device according to claim 18, wherein the heating
capacity of a heating element is higher than that of a heating
element in the inner zone by 20-200%, preferably by 50-150%, in
particular by 60-100%.
20. Applicator device according to claim 17, further comprising at
least one insulating board for thermally insulating the heating
device and/or the main body.
21. Applicator device according to claim 17, wherein at least one
insulating board is situated on each end face of the applicator
device.
22. Applicator device according to claim 1, wherein the nozzle
assembly has a nozzle to dispense the liquid material and a nozzle
receptacle to hold the nozzle.
23. Applicator device according to claim 22, wherein the nozzle
receptacle surrounds the nozzle approximately in a U-shape.
24. Applicator device according to claim 22, wherein at least one
clamping element, in particular clamping screws, is provided to
clamp the nozzle in position.
25. Applicator device according to claim 22, further comprising at
least one spacing element, in particular a spacer plate, to ensure
a distance between nozzle and nozzle receptacle to form a
dispensing slit, and at least one fixing element, in particular a
locating pin, to fix the spacing element in the nozzle
assembly.
26. Nozzle assembly for sheet application of liquid material,
wherein the nozzle assembly is customized to be attached in an
applicator device according to claim 1, in particular in the
clamping device of the applicator device, and/or that the nozzle
assembly has characteristics of the nozzle assembly.
27. (canceled)
Description
[0001] This application claims the priority benefit of German
Utility Model No. 202006016674.2, the disclosure of which is hereby
incorporated by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to an applicator device for
sheet application of liquid material.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Applicator devices, also known as application heads, are
known for sheet application of liquid material, in particular hot
melt adhesive. Such application heads have a main body, a nozzle
assembly for dispensing the liquid material, and a valve system for
controlling the dispensing of material. The nozzle assembly and the
valve system are incorporated into the main body. The hot melt
adhesive is fed to the main body under pressure and is directed
from there to the valve system. Directing the adhesive from the
main body to the valve system is controlled by the valve system,
which also controls the dispensing of the hot melt adhesive from
the nozzle assembly for application onto an application
surface.
[0004] The nozzle assembly has at least one slit for this purpose,
to ensure film-type or strip-type dispensing of the liquid
material. The slit can have interruptions for this purpose, in
order to output a plurality of strips side-by-side, possibly even
at differing intervals from each other. In some cases the valve
system has a plurality of slits that are controllable independently
of each other.
[0005] The hot melt adhesive is fed to the main body at a high
temperature, which may be, for example, up to 200.degree. C. To
avoid too great a temperature drop, heating devices are provided in
the main body.
[0006] The valve system is attached to the main body by means of
screw fittings. To achieve a definable orientation of the valve
system with respect to the main body, and thus to the application
surface during operation, drilled holes with corresponding pins are
provided in the main body and the valve system.
[0007] A disadvantage here is that changing the nature and
arrangement of the application of the hot melt adhesive, i.e.,
changing the application pattern--known as a format
change--necessitates completely loosening all of the screws
attaching the valve system to the main body. This makes a format
change costly and also difficult, since both the loosened screws
and the nozzle orifice can fall off when the last screw is
loosened. Added to this is the fact that a detailed constructional
adaptation of the valve system to the main body is necessary.
[0008] Another disadvantage with known applicator devices is that
different material thicknesses of the hot melt adhesive can occur,
depending on the position of the applied hot melt adhesive along
the nozzle slit. Such a variation of the material thickness can be
caused by an uneven temperature distribution.
[0009] The object of the present invention is thus to reduce the
above-named problems as much as possible, or to eliminate them.
SUMMARY
[0010] Using a clamping device to attach the nozzle assembly to the
main body avoids fastening elements on the nozzle assembly, in
particular through holes that are matched to corresponding holes
with threading in the main body. This makes it possible to increase
the compatibility between nozzle assemblies and basic bodies. In
addition, a simplification of the design of the nozzle assembly is
achievable, since when arranging the cavities and, in particular,
channels to carry the hot melt adhesive within the nozzle assembly,
it is no longer necessary to pay attention to the named attachment
holes. The former encroachment of attachment holes on the inner
geometries of the nozzle assembly is thus no longer present.
[0011] All that is needed to install or uninstall a nozzle assembly
and, in particular, to exchange a nozzle assembly, is to release
the clamping in order to loosen the attachment far enough so that,
for example, the nozzle assembly can be removed by pulling it out
transversely to a clamping direction. The effort of removing a
large number of screws no longer needs to be made. This also
counteracts the loss of screws. That also prevents screws from
falling into other parts of the system when the nozzle assembly is
being exchanged.
[0012] In an advantageous manner, the clamping device has at least
one clamping section affixed to the main body and/or at least one
clamping means or element that is attachable to the main body. For
attaching, in an advantageous design the nozzle assembly is held
between a fixed clamping section and at least one clamping means or
element that is attachable to the main body. The fixed clamping
section here is firmly attached to the main body, in particular it
is made in a single piece with the latter. This clamping section
together with the main body thus forms a stable design and offers a
flank against which the nozzle assembly is placed for attaching.
From the other side of the nozzle assembly one or more clamping
elements are provided, which are attached to the main body for
example by means of screws and thereby hold the nozzle assembly
together with the clamping section. In such an attached state the
nozzle assembly has one side against the clamping section and
another side against the clamping elements. With a third surface
the nozzle assembly is in contact with another surface of the main
body, namely, in the area of dispensing orifices for hot melt
adhesive. Corresponding with these orifices in the main body, there
are orifices in the nozzle assembly to receive the hot melt
adhesive, which correspond to the forenamed dispensing orifices in
the main body. In principle, however, the dispensing orifices can
also be situated in the area of the clamping section.
[0013] In an advantageous embodiment, the clamping device has a
plurality of clamping elements spaced apart from each other. This
sort of spaced arrangement is often adequate to achieve uniform
attachment. The use of a plurality of spaced clamping elements, in
particular identical ones, has the advantage that the same clamping
elements can be used for applicator devices of different sizes,
with a number of clamping elements that corresponds to the size of
the applicator device being used for the attachment.
[0014] The preferred embodiment is an applicator device according
to the invention, characterized in that the main body has a contact
surface for placing the nozzle assembly and the clamping section
has a clamping section surface and/or the clamping element has a
clamping element surface, and the contact surface to the clamping
section surface, and/or in the attached state to the clamping
element surface, spans an angle of less than 90.degree.. This
causes an undercut area to be formed between the contact surface
for placing the nozzle assembly and the clamping section surface,
into which the nozzle assembly is inserted for attaching. When
clamping elements are used, in the attached state such an undercut
area between the clamping means and the contact surface also
results. When the nozzle assembly is attached by means of the
clamping device, in one case the attachment comes about between the
clamping section and at least one clamping element. The clamping
section and the clamping element operate here like two gripping
jaws which grip the nozzle assembly between them. The oblique
position of the clamping section surface and the clamping element
surface results in an additional force which acts on the nozzle
assembly in the direction of the contact surface of the main body.
In an advantageous design, there is at least one orifice present in
the contact surface of the main body to dispense liquid material to
the nozzle assembly. Pressing the nozzle assembly in the direction
of the contact surface thus also promotes in addition a connection
between at least one discharge opening in the main body and a
corresponding input opening in the nozzle assembly.
[0015] Preferably, the clamping device has at least one tensioning
means or element to clamp the nozzle assembly in position. Such a
tensioning means or element is provided in order to exert force on
the nozzle assembly, so that the latter is held firmly in the
clamping device. The tensioning element thus increases a clamping
force of the clamping device on the nozzle assembly, or in a
preferred design brings about largely or exclusively only the
clamping or tensioning force on the nozzle assembly needed to
attach the nozzle assembly. Advantageously, the tensioning element
has at least one clamping screw, which is advantageously formed in
at least one clamping element. Such a tensioning element can also
be formed in a different way in the clamping element, for example
by a lever arrangement.
[0016] In a preferred variant, the clamping element each have a
threaded hole in which a threaded pin is situated. In the assembled
state the threaded holes are directed toward the nozzle assembly,
and in particular they run perpendicular to the surface of the
clamping element; when the threaded pin is screwed in the
appropriate direction the threaded pin presses against the nozzle
assembly, thereby resulting in a firm bracing between nozzle
assembly and clamping device.
[0017] To release the clamping device in order to be able to
perform an exchange of the nozzle assembly, each threaded pin is
released from the nozzle assembly by turning it in the appropriate
direction. The threaded pin does not have to be completely
unscrewed from the threaded hole for this purpose. Instead, it is
sufficient if the respective threaded pin no longer extends beyond
the surface of the respective clamping element. The nozzle assembly
can then be pulled along the surfaces of the clamping element out
of the clamping device, and at the same time along the contact
surface and a clamping section surface, and thereby be removed from
the applicator device. After concrete dimensioning of the clamping
device and the nozzle assembly it can sometimes be necessary to
loosen the clamping element further, but without removing them
completely from the main body. The clamping device is thus released
in particular by the tensioning element, and the nozzle assembly
can be pulled out of the clamping device transversely to a
tensioning direction and another nozzle assembly can be inserted
into the clamping device. No part of the attaching device that is
designed according to the invention as a clamping device, in
particular no screws, need to be removed completely. In one
embodiment the clamping element can be removed completely, however,
in order to be able to remove a nozzle in other directions when
necessary, for example downward, or to perform servicing.
[0018] To ensure that the nozzle assembly is attached at its
intended place in the clamping device, advantageously at least one
positioning means or element is provided to position the nozzle
assembly. Such a positioning means or element can be realized for
example by two corresponding geometries, where the nozzle assembly
has one geometric shape and the main body and/or the clamping
device has a shape that corresponds thereto. In one embodiment, at
least one positioning element has a stop against which the nozzle
assembly is pushed. Such a stop can be attached to the main body
and/or the nozzle assembly for example as a screw with a screw head
and possibly a washer.
[0019] In an advantageous design, the positioning element has at
least one recess in the nozzle assembly or the clamping device and
at least one corresponding element to engage the recess. The recess
and the element engaging it are designed so that a shift of the
nozzle assembly transversely to a tensioning direction, i.e. a
shift along the contact surface, clamping section surface and/or
clamping element surface is prevented.
[0020] Advantageously, the corresponding element is designed as a
movable element, in particular, as a threaded pin in the clamping
element. Because the corresponding element is movable, it can be
moved away to pull a nozzle assembly out or insert it into the
clamping device, so that this removal or insertion is not hindered
by the corresponding element. The nozzle assembly is then pushed
into its position in the clamping device, and the corresponding
movable element is moved into the recess. In an advantageous design
a threaded pin is screwed into the recess. Advantageously, the
threaded pin is provided with a point and the recess is designed
with sloping flanks in the nature of a chamfer. When the threaded
pin is screwed point-first into the indentation-like recess, that
can not only fix the position of the nozzle assembly, but also the
interaction between the point of the threaded pin and at least one
sloping flank of the recess can bring about an additional change,
namely correction of the position of the nozzle assembly. Such an
effect can be achieved for example by a conical design of the
recess.
[0021] It is advantageous when a positioning element corresponds at
least in part with a tensioning element. In one embodiment, a
threaded pin with a point is used initially for positioning here
after a nozzle assembly is inserted into the clamping device. To
this end, the threaded pin is rotated and at the same time moved
into a corresponding recess, in order to thereby get the nozzle
assembly into its final position and secure it there against
shifting. By screwing this threaded pin even further in the
direction of the nozzle assembly, this threaded pin also achieves a
tension that acts on the nozzle assembly. This threaded pin thus
functions on the one hand as a tool for positioning and on the
other hand as a tensioning means element. Other tensioning element
can be provided, which however do not have to be intended as
positioning element, since a nozzle assembly inserted into the
clamping device can only move in one direction, and thus in
principle only one positioning device is necessary.
[0022] In another preferred embodiment the clamping device has two
opposing fixed clamping sections, in order to thereby fasten a
nozzle assembly between these two clamping sections. Both clamping
sections are preferably formed here in a single piece with the main
body. Preferably, the clamping device here has a U-shape in a cross
section transverse to the direction of insertion of the nozzle
assembly, and thus transverse to the contact surface and/or one of
the clamping section surfaces, or encloses a dovetail-shaped space.
At the same time, preferably tensioning elements for secured
attachment of the nozzle assembly are provided within this form in
one leg of such a clamping device, and thus in one clamping
section. In particular, such clamping elements are executed as
threaded holes with threaded pins transverse to one leg.
[0023] By providing an elastic clamping element, which is
preferably in the form of a sheet-metal spring, a tensioning force
that acts on the nozzle assembly to attach it is predeterminable
through the geometry of the clamping device matched to the nozzle
assembly and the concrete design, including the material used for
the elastic clamping element. Thus to attach a nozzle assembly the
latter is inserted into the clamping device and the elastic
clamping element is attached to the main body--in particular, it is
screwed on firmly. This causes the elastic clamping element to come
under tension, which acts on the nozzle assembly to attach it.
[0024] In a preferred embodiment, a holding element is attached to
the clamping section. Such a holding element extends beyond the
clamping section surface in the direction of an attached nozzle
assembly. This enables an undercut area to be realized for the
clamping section including the holding element, without the
clamping section with its clamping section surface having to be
incorporated into the main body as an undercut area. Such an
undercut area produced by the holding element promotes holding of
the nozzle assembly in the manner already described above.
[0025] By preference, the nozzle assembly has at least one
indentation, in particular a groove to engage an edge of the
clamping section, the clamping element and/or the holding element.
This enables the attachment of the nozzle assembly to be improved,
since the engagement of the clamping device in a groove of the
nozzle assembly improves the hold of the nozzle assembly. At the
same time, when the clamping device is released the nozzle assembly
can be slid out or slid back in, as with other embodiments.
[0026] It is further proposed according to the invention to provide
an applicator device with a nozzle assembly that has a nozzle for
dispensing the liquid material and a nozzle receptacle to hold the
nozzle. It is possible here to create a nozzle that does not
require any through holes for attachment. Hence, a nozzle can be
exchanged in a simple manner, and any channels for hot melt
adhesive are independent of the attachment. It is advantageous if
the nozzle receptacle is approximately U-shaped in design in a
front view, and if the nozzle assumes a U-shape in such an interior
space. Advantageously, clamping elements are provided here, in
particular clamping screws to clamp the nozzle in place. Thus, for
example, by arranging a plurality of clamping screws in a leg of a
U-shaped nozzle receptacle, they can be tightened against the
nozzle to attach it solidly. This enables the nozzle to be held
firmly without having to have attaching holes itself.
[0027] According to another preferred embodiment, a spacing element
is provided between the nozzle and nozzle receptacle, in particular
a spacer plate, whereby a space between the nozzle and nozzle
receptacle at a contact surface is ensured, in order to thereby
form a dispensing slit and thus a slotted application nozzle. At
least one fixing element is provided to fix the spacing element in
the nozzle assembly. This creates a firm hold for the spacing
element without need of tightly screwing down the latter directly,
if the fixing elements are designed, for example, as locating
pins.
[0028] Through the use of heating devices, the main body as well as
the nozzle assembly, control parts and other adhesive-carrying
elements are heated, thereby counteracting the cooling of hot melt
adhesive in the main body. It has been recognized according to the
invention that hot melt adhesive sometimes exhibits great
deviations in application thickness in the edge zones of the slit
of the slotted application nozzle, i.e., toward the end faces of
the applicator device, in comparison to application areas in the
middle zone of the slotted application nozzle. At the same time, it
has been recognized that the hot melt adhesive cools down too much
in these areas and thereby causes the variations. Instead of
fitting additional heating elements or heating zones into this
area, it is proposed that the heating capacity of some heating
elements be increased, in order to thereby achieve insofar as
possible a uniform and stable temperature profile in the main body
and/or system. Such a stabilizing thermal profile at the same time
stabilizes the temperature distribution of the hot melt adhesive in
the slotted application nozzle, and counteracts variations in the
application thickness.
[0029] By preference, heating elements here in the area of the end
faces of the applicator device are equipped with higher heating
capacity. The heating capacity of a heating element in the end zone
is about 20 to 200% greater than that of other heating elements in
the same applicator device, preferably 50 to 120%, even more
preferred 60 to 100% greater. The heating elements here in an
advantageous embodiment are already adjusted to a higher heating
capacity by their dimensioning. This enables the actuation of the
heating elements to remain the same in terms of the cost and effort
of control, and all heating elements can be actuated alike
simultaneously. An increase in the heating capacity then results
solely from the dimensioning of the particular heating element. An
increase in physical size is normally not required here, but may be
preferred to avoid confusion.
[0030] By preference, the applicator device is equipped with at
least one insulation board to insulate the heating device and/or
the main body thermally. This not only addresses the loss of
thermal energy, but more importantly it ensures an improvement in
the uniformity of a thermal profile. Preferably, at least one
insulating board is situated at each end of the applicator device.
The emission of thermal energy to the environment from the
applicator device, and thus a temperature drop in the applicator
device, is lessened by reducing the emission of thermal energy at
the ends. The total emission of thermal energy in the area of the
ends, i.e. in the marginal zone of the applicator device, is thus
brought more into line with central zones that are distant from the
ends. This promotes stabilization and the achievement of a
maximally uniform temperature profile. It is possible in this way
to improve temperature distribution without specifically selecting
individual zones of the applicator device independently of other
zones. Accordingly, it also remains sufficient to use a single
temperature sensor in small applicator devices, or for each heating
zone where there are multiple heating elements in large applicator
devices.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] The present invention will be explained below in greater
detail with reference to the figures, on the basis of some
exemplary embodiments. The figures show the following:
[0032] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an applicator device
according to a first embodiment of the invention.
[0033] FIG. 2 is a different perspective view of the applicator
device according to FIG. 1.
[0034] FIG. 3 is a different view of the applicator device
according to FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0035] FIGS. 4 to 7 show the assembled applicator device according
to FIGS. 1 through 3 in a first end view, a side view, a second end
view and a top view.
[0036] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a nozzle assembly with a
clamping means or element of an applicator device according to
FIGS. 1 through 7.
[0037] FIG. 9 is a different view of a part of the nozzle assembly
with a clamping element according to FIG. 8.
[0038] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an applicator version
according to a second embodiment, in a partial assembly
drawing.
[0039] FIG. 11 is a different perspective view of the applicator
device according to FIG. 10.
[0040] FIGS. 12 to 15 show an applicator device according to FIGS.
10 and 11 in the assembled state in a first end view, a side view,
a second end view and a top view.
[0041] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an applicator device
according to a third embodiment, in a partial assembly drawing.
[0042] FIG. 17 is a different perspective view of an applicator
device according to FIG. 16.
[0043] FIGS. 18 to 21 show an applicator device according to FIGS.
16 and 17 in the assembled state in a first end view, a side view,
a second end view and a top view.
[0044] FIG. 22 is a side view of an applicator device according to
a fourth embodiment.
[0045] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a nozzle assembly according
to a fifth embodiment of the invention.
[0046] FIG. 24 is an end view the nozzle assembly according to FIG.
23.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0047] Applicator device 1 according to FIG. 1 has a main body 2, a
nozzle assembly 4 and a valve system 6. Main body 2 is provided
with a first and a second holder 8, 10. Holders 8, 10 are fastened
to main body 2 with one each first and second insulating boards 12,
14 interposed. The insulating boards normally consist of layered,
resin-impregnated paper, as well as mica material and also sandwich
compounds. Temperature differences of 40.degree. K can be reached
between main body 2 and adjacent holders 8 and 10. The applicator
device is thus mountable in a corresponding production unit by
means of the attaching pins 16 and 18, which here are in the form
of threaded pins.
[0048] From an operator side, which is depicted on the right in
FIG. 1, a filter 20 for filtering the hot melt adhesive which is to
be applied is inserted into main body 2. Of the filter 20, the
filter head 22 with a hexagonal nut is visible in FIG. 1. Filter 20
extends through holder 8 and insulating board 12 into the main
body. In the assembled state, filter 20 is one of the things held
in filter holder 24. A dummy plug 24, which is used when no filter
is used, is inserted in that case from the end facing away from the
user into main body 2 through second insulating board 14 and is
attached to second holder 10.
[0049] An input 26 is provided to supply the applicator device with
hot melt adhesive. To this end, a supply line is connected to the
supply connection 28 of input 26 to supply hot melt adhesive. The
hot melt adhesive passes through input 26 into filter 20 and there
through a filter body, and is then delivered to nozzle assembly 4
through dispensing orifices.
[0050] Applicator device 1 of FIG. 1 has a control unit, whereas
other applicator devices operate without controlling the outflow of
adhesive. The outflow of hot melt adhesive through the dispensing
orifices is controlled according to FIG. 1 by way of a control unit
6, which has a valve system. Control unit 6 has an electrical
connection 32 for this purpose to supply the control signals, and a
pneumatic connection 34 to provide working pressure to move valves
of the valve system. To execute the control signals there is a
pneumatic cylinder 36, whose outer rectangular body is recognizable
in FIG. 1.
[0051] Main body 2 has yet another opening for supplying hot melt
adhesives, but it is closed with a dummy plug 38 and has no other
significance in the depicted configuration of the applicator
device.
[0052] A main electrical connection 40 is provided for the general
supply of electricity to applicator device 1. Via this main
electrical connection 40 it is possible to transmit electrical
signals, switch signals and measurement signals, as well as
electrical energy. For example, the switch signals for control unit
6 can also be transmitted via the main electrical connection 40;
these are then forwarded from the main body at the electrical
connection 32 of control unit 6. This necessitates the provision of
electrical connections, which however are not illustrated in FIG.
1.
[0053] Electrical energy for heating the applicator device 1 in
main body 2 can also be supplied through the main electrical
connection 40.
[0054] Nozzle assembly 4 is made up essentially of a nozzle 44 and
a nozzle adapter 42 by means of screw fitting 46. Openings 43 are
provided for locating pins. Situated between nozzle 44 and a nozzle
adapter 42 is a flat intermediate element, known as a spacer plate
48. Nozzle assembly 4 also has a dispensing slit 50. According to
the depiction in FIG. 1, dispensing slit 50 is situated beneath
nozzle assembly 4. An adhesive outlet or dispensing slit can also
be incorporated directly into a nozzle assembly, in particular into
the nozzle and/or the nozzle receptacle. Spacer plate 48 extends to
this dispensing slit 50, for example in order to subdivide
dispensing slit 50 into a plurality of sub-slits. During use as
intended, an application surface is moved along under the nozzle
assembly to apply the hot melt adhesive, in the direction coming
from nozzle 44 and moving in the direction toward nozzle adapter
42. The application surface thus first reaches a slightly rounded
area 52 on nozzle 44. In the area of dispensing slit 50 nozzle
adapter 42 has a tear-off edge 54.
[0055] To attach the nozzle assembly 4, applicator device 1 has a
fixed clamping section 56, which is formed in a single piece with
the main body 2, as well as two clamping means or elements 58 that
are attachable to the main body. The clamping section 56 and the
clamping means 58 are designed to clamp nozzle assembly 4 between
them. With such clamping, nozzle assembly 4 bears against clamping
section surface 60 with its nozzle 44, and nozzle adapter 42 bears
against two clamping means surfaces 62. In addition, nozzle
assembly 4 then bears upward with a connecting surface 64 against a
contact surface 66 of main body 2. Clamping section surface 60 is
at an angle of about 75.degree. to contact surface 66. In the
assembled state the clamping means surfaces 62 of clamping means 58
are likewise at an angle of about 75.degree. to contact surface
66.
[0056] To attach the nozzle assembly, the clamping means 58 in turn
are attached to the main body 2, in which the attaching screws 68
are screwed into the corresponding threaded holes 70. For a solid
seating of the clamping means 58 on the main body 2, the latter has
corresponding clamping means seats 72, which are incorporated into
the main body 2. To position nozzle assembly 4 in a direction of
motion transverse to dispensing slit 50, and in part also to fix
its position, a recess 74 shaped for example like a notch is formed
in nozzle adapter 42. For positioning, a threaded pin 76 with a
point that corresponds approximately to the recess 74 is provided,
which is screwed into the threaded hole 78 in clamping means 58 for
this purpose and in so doing is moved into the recess 74. This
simultaneously causes a tensioning, in that the threaded pin 76
exerts a force on nozzle assembly 4. There is another tension pin
80 provided as a tensioning means or element in one of the clamping
means 58, which is likewise guided in a threaded hole, in order to
be screwed in the direction of nozzle assembly 4 in the area of
nozzle adapter 42. However, tension pin 80 has an essentially flat
surface directed toward nozzle assembly 4, and thus in contrast to
threaded pin 76 does not have a dual function. The threaded pin is
thus intended for positioning nozzle assembly 4 as part of a
positioning means. Threaded pin 76 and tension pin 80 are both
designed as parts of the tensioning means for clamping the nozzle
assembly in position.
[0057] FIG. 2 shows a feed opening 65 in contact surface 64 for
inputting hot melt adhesive. To seal it, a seal 67 is provided,
which has an X-shaped cross section and is known as a quad-ring. In
principle, it is also possible to use an O-ring. In contrast to
FIG. 1, the threaded pin 76 in FIG. 2 is situated close to the
recess 74. When attaching the nozzle assembly 4, threaded pin 76
must first be moved with its positioning point into the recess 74
for positioning, by screwing it. As it is screwed further and
tightened, an additional attaching tensioning occurs between the
main body 2 and the clamping means 58 on the one hand and the
nozzle assembly 4 on the other hand.
[0058] In addition, an electric dummy plug can also be seen from
FIG. 2, which covers an opening in the main body from which an
electrical connection can be passed when needed.
[0059] FIG. 3 clarifies the orientation between nozzle assembly 4,
with recess 74 situated in it for positioning with the clamping
means 58 including attaching screws 68, and in particular the
threaded pin 76 with its positioning point 77.
[0060] Insulating boards 12 and 14 are designed as flat
elements.
[0061] Applicator device 1 is shown at a smaller scale in FIGS. 4
through 7 than in FIGS. 1 through 3. From the depicted assembly it
is also possible to see from the end view according to FIGS. 4 and
6 how nozzle assembly 4 is clasped by fixed clamping section 60,
attachable clamping means 58 and also the contact surface 66 of
main body 2. Viewed from contact surface 66, clamping section
surface 60 and clamping means surfaces 62 run toward each other as
the distance from contact surface 66 increases. This achieves a
firm clasping, which also prevents nozzle assembly 44 from sliding
out transversely to the contact surface 66.
[0062] As threaded pin 76 is tightened, nozzle assembly 4, which
initially hangs in clamping device 1, will slide up on the clamping
section surface 60, in order to then be in contact with the contact
surface 66. Clamping section surface 60 is normally greased for
this purpose.
[0063] It can be seen from FIG. 5 that in the assembled state the
clamping means 58 are attached to main body 2 at a small distance
from each other. Threaded pins 76 and 80 are situated in the same
position in their respective clamping means. Compared to threaded
pin 80, threaded pin 76 has the additional function of positioning
the nozzle assembly.
[0064] The top view according to FIG. 7, in contrast to the other
views, also clearly shows an electrical cover 82. Electrical
connections are stowed and heating modules are also situated
beneath this electrical cover 82.
[0065] Nozzle assembly 4 including a clamping means 58 with a
threaded pin 76 is visible in greater detail from FIGS. 8 and 9.
Clamping means 58 has a prismatic shape. Drilled holes 71 for
passing through the attaching screws 68 extend through an attaching
surface 69. To attach clamping means 58, they are attached to the
main body 2 by means of screws 68 by screwing the attaching screws
68 into threaded holes 70 (FIG. 1) in the main body 2, which cause
the attaching surface 69 to bear against the main body in a
clamping means seat 72. The position or orientation of the clamping
means 58 relative to the main body 2 is determined by the clamping
seat 72. Threaded pin 76 is now screwed into recess 74 in nozzle
assembly 4 to position the nozzle assembly. In the assembled state,
threaded pin 76 protrudes in its threaded hole through clamping
means surface 62. Clamping means surface 62 is then in contact with
a first block surface 63 of nozzle adapter 42 on nozzle assembly 4.
A screw fitting surface 47 in the area of the screw fittings 46 is
offset at a slight angle from the first blocking surface 63, so
that it does not rest against clamping means surface 62. Threaded
pin 76 is positioned here obliquely to the attaching screws 68.
[0066] Nozzle 44 has a second screw fitting surface 45. Screw
fitting surface 47 and second screw fitting surface 45 are situated
approximately plane-parallel to each other, in order to thereby
shape the connection of nozzle 44 to nozzle receptacle 42
simply.
[0067] The applicator device according to the second embodiment
according to FIG. 10 has two control units 206, which are connected
with each other through a common pneumatic connection 235. Control
units 206 have a jet carrier 237 under their pneumatic cylinder
236. To assemble applicator device 201, the control units 206 with
their jet carriers 237 are inserted into two openings 207 in the
main body 202. In the assembled state, the jet carriers 237 then
run at a slight distance from each other transversely to the
inserted filter 220. Applicator device 201 has in addition an
electrical screw connection 239 and a dummy plug 238 for an unused
electrical supply line.
[0068] Nozzle assembly 204 is attached to main body 202 here by
means of five clamping means or elements 258. The middle clamping
means 258, shown unmounted, is equipped with a threaded pin 276
with a point 277. For positioning, threaded pin 276 in clamping
means 258 is pushed into the recess 274 for positioning, by means
of screws. Since threaded pin 276 is centered in the middle
clamping means 258, and recess 274 is also centered in nozzle
assembly 204, the positioning can also be referred to here as
centering. The clamping means 258 are identical in design to the
clamping means 58 according to the first embodiment according to
FIGS. 1 through 9. Thus for large and small applicator devices 1
and 201 respectively, and nozzle assemblies 4 and 204 of
correspondingly differing sizes, it is thus possible to effect an
attachment with the help of the same clamping means 58 (FIGS. 1-9)
or 258 (FIGS. 10-15). Only the number of clamping means 58 or 258
used varies. In each case, one clamping means 58 or 258 performs
the positioning of nozzle assembly 4 or 204 by means of a threaded
pin 76 or 276.
[0069] A plurality of heating cartridges are used to heat
applicator device 201. An outer heating cartridge 284 is shown in
the withdrawn state in the area of main electrical connection
240.
[0070] The positions of all heating modules, in this case heating
cartridges, can be seen from FIG. 11. According to that
illustration there are two outer heating cartridges 284 and six
inner heating cartridges 286 present. Outer heating cartridges 284
are situated in the vicinity of first and second insulating boards
212 and 214. They both have a rated heating power of 200 watts.
Situated between the two outer heating cartridges 284 are the six
inner heating cartridges 285, which each have a rated heating
capacity of 125 watts. Adjacent to the heating cartridges 284, 286
are connecting compartments 283 for guiding and connecting electric
power lines. To this end, the electronic connections lead from the
main electrical connection 240 into the main body 202 and from
there back to the connecting compartments 283. The electrical
connection of the heating cartridges 284 and 286 also takes place
here. In the assembled state, both the heating cartridges 284, 286
and the connecting compartments 283--and with them the electrical
connections that have been made--are shielded toward the outside by
electrical cover 282.
[0071] FIGS. 12 through 15 show applicator device 201 according to
the second embodiment, in four views that correspond to the views
according to FIGS. 4 through 7 of the first embodiment. The second
embodiment has five approximately evenly spaced fastening elements
258. Two control units 206 are present to control the dispensing of
the hot melt adhesive. Reference labels of like or similar elements
of the first, second and third embodiments differ only in the third
digit, the hundreds digit. Reference labels of the second
embodiment are in the two-hundred range, those of the third are in
the three-hundred range.
[0072] Applicator device 301 according to the third embodiment and
according to FIG. 16 has four hydraulically independent zones for
hot melt adhesive. Accordingly, there are four control units 306
present, which may be connected to the pneumatic power line through
a distribution manifold 335. In other embodiments, separate
pressure supply lines can also be provided. Four filters 320 and
four supply connections 328 are also provided. For reasons of space
for the adhesive supply line (supply hose), the supply connections
328 are offset. Nozzle assembly 304 is attached by means of five
clamping means or elements 358, as in the case of the second
embodiment, with the middle one of these clamping means 358 having
a threaded pin 376 for positioning the nozzle assembly 304. A
recess is provided for this in nozzle assembly 304, into which
threaded pin 376 is supposed to mesh. The other clamping means 358
each have a threaded pin 380 without a point. On the side opposite
the clamping means 358 nozzle assembly 304 is held by the fixed
clamping section 356, which is formed in a single piece with the
main body 302.
[0073] Insulating board 312 is shaped, in particular in its
outline, to fit end face 313.
[0074] Applicator device 301 according to FIG. 17 has two outer
heating cartridges 384 and eight inner heating cartridges 386. The
outer heating cartridges 384 have a higher heating capacity than
the inner heating cartridges 386.
[0075] From the side view and top view of applicator device 301
according to FIGS. 19 and 21 a first and a second insulating board
312, 314 can be seen. Since the filters 320 are not inserted into
the main body 302 at an end, they also do not pass through either
of the insulating boards 312, 314.
[0076] Like the second embodiment, applicator device 301 of the
third embodiment also has five fastening elements 358, which are
however at different intervals from each other. In applicator
device 301 there are two main electrical connections 340
present.
[0077] The main body 402 according to the fourth embodiment and
according to FIG. 22 has a contact surface 466 and a fixed clamping
section 456 with a clamping section surface 460. Contact surface
466 and clamping section surface 460 are situated approximately at
right angles to each other. Nozzle assembly 404 is attached to main
body 402 by a holding element 490 in the form of a flat bar and an
elastic clamping means 458 in the form of a sheet-metal spring.
Holding element 490 and sheet-metal spring 458 both mesh with
grooves 492 and 494 respectively, in nozzle assembly 404. Groove
492, into which holding element 490 meshes, is formed in nozzle
adapter 442. Groove 494, into which sheet-metal spring 458 meshes,
is formed in nozzle 444.
[0078] Sheet metal spring 458 depicted in FIG. 22 is under tension,
which is achieved by sheet-metal spring 458 being screwed tightly
against main body 402 in the area of sheet-metal spring attaching
screw 496. When this sheet-metal spring attaching screw 496 is
loosened, because of the tension sheet-metal screw 458 also is
loosened from main body 402 initially in the area facing nozzle
assembly 404, until sheet-metal spring 458 is relaxed. The concrete
design of sheet-metal spring 458 in terms of material, shape, size
and thickness thus predetermines the tensioning force and hence the
holding force that develops when the sheet-metal spring is screwed
flat against main body 402, as shown in FIG. 22. A torque wrench is
therefore not required to attach nozzle assembly 404 with a
predetermined strength.
[0079] Nozzle assembly 504 according to a fifth embodiment and
according to FIG. 23 has a nozzle 544 and a nozzle receptacle 542.
Feed openings 565 for supplying hot melt adhesive are situated in
nozzle receptacle 542. Nozzle 544 is surrounded by receptacle 542
approximately in a U-shape. Nozzle 544 can be pushed out of
receptacle 542 in a pushing direction 598 when in the loosened
state. A washer 597 together with a stop screw 599 forms a stop for
nozzle 544 in the direction opposite the pushing direction 598.
This enables nozzle 544 to be positioned in nozzle receptacle
542.
[0080] To fasten it, four clamping screws 580 are situated in one
side 558 of nozzle receptacle 542. To clamp nozzle 544 tightly in
nozzle receptacle 542, the tensioning screws 580 are screwed
against nozzle 544. That forces nozzle 544 against nozzle
receptacle 542, with a spacer plate 548 being clamped tightly
between nozzle and nozzle receptacle 544, 542.
[0081] As FIG. 24 makes clear, spacer plate 548 is fixed in
position by locating pins 549. The locating points 549 are inserted
into nozzle 544.
* * * * *